Kathmandu is the capital city of Nepal, the entryway to the wonders of the Himalayas, and a cultural valley of deep history within it, fine architecture, and spirituality. A visit to Kathmandu Valley during a span of three days for first-time visitors is a good way of really feeling Nepal, with its myriad cultures and incredible sights. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to a buzzing local bazaar and the peaceful beauty of ancient temples, Kathmandu has it all. Here’s the most detailed itinerary to make the most of your visit in the space of three days.
Day 1: Exploring Kathmandu’s Historic Ecosystem and Spiritual Heart
Morning: Visit Swayambhunath- Monkey Temple.
Swayambhunath, popularly known as the Monkey Temple, rests atop a promontory on which you commence your very first day in Kathmandu. As much as this site is regarded as the single most defining landscape to this city, it is also important to note that it is a mound-like stupa that happens to provide one of the best views in the entire Kathmandu Valley. This place has been from ages past a means of meditation associated with Holman. They are very well integrated—both Hindu and Buddhist imagery and theatricality involving the same site: the iconic Buddha eyes painted on the stupa looking out to signify its all-seeing nature. Add to it many monkeys roaming in the premises, which finally added the adjectives to the temple.
How to get there: It’s a short drive from the city center or about 30 minutes of walking uphill.
Must-see highlights: The stupa, the prayer wheels, the small shrines, and the views of the valley below.
Visit Kathmandu Durbar Square in the Late Morning
After soaking in the sights at Swayambhunath, visit Kathmandu Durbar Square, the city heart in the past. This square is fringed with marvelous temples, palaces, and courtyards that date back to the Malla Dynasty. Important structures include Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Taleju Temple, and Kasthamandap (which gave the name to the city).
The highlights: The royal palace, Kumari Ghar (the residence of the living goddess), and temples for many different gods and goddesses.
Pro tip: If you are a history buff, hire a guide from that place to hear the best of tales and architectural details.
Afternoon: A Stroll through- Thamel
After an immersion in history at the Durbar Square, you can spend the entire afternoon visiting Thamel, a lively section of Kathmandu that is full of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a good place to shop for traditional souvenirs like handicrafts, pashmina shawls, traditional jewelry, and tools for trekking. It is also the place where adventure tourism is at its peak, as many trekking and hiking agencies operate here.
Must-see highlights: Local handicraft shops, cozy cafes, and rooftop restaurants for views of the city.
Pro tip: If you’re in the mood for shopping, try the narrow alleys of Thamel for unique, handcrafted items.
Night: Experience Nepali cuisine and traditional food.
Try authentic Nepali food from one of the hundreds of restaurants in Thamel, where you will most likely be able to find Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), and sel roti (roasted rice dough). As for dessert, you may want to sample kheer—a creamy rice pudding—or “yoghurt” with honey.
Visit the Temples, Stupas ,and Advanced Culture of Kathamandu Valley on Day 2
Morning: Visit Pashupatinath Temple
On the second day, start your journey by going to “Pashupatinath,” which is one of the most revered as well as important of all the temples of Hindus in Nepal. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is on the banks of the Bagmati River. Thousands of Hindu pilgrims gather here from around the globe to worship and do puja.
Must-see highlights: The main temple, where only Hindus are allowed to enter; the ghats (cremation sites) by the river; and the many small shrines surrounding the complex.
Pro tip: If you’re coming early in the morning, then you can witness peaceful rituals and temple activities on the riverbank.
Late Morning: Boudhanath Stupa Visit
It is not far-fetched driving from Pashupatinath to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest and highly regarded stupas in all of Nepal for Buddhists. It is known as the home of huge mandalas and the ever-watchful eyes of Buddha, where Tibetan Buddhists come and find solitude. An area around Boudhanath is also filled with Tibetan monasteries, where you could often see monks going in circles around the stupa engaged in prayers.
Don’t miss: The stupa, the prayer flags, and little monasteries.
Pro tip: You may do a traditional Tibetan prayer walk around the stupa known as a Kora.
Afternoon: Tour Patan Durbar Square
In the afternoon, take a remarkably short drive across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu to reach the nearby city of Patan. Yet, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Patan Durbar Square, features incredibly ornate Newar architecture and houses artifacts in the Patan Museum that have much to say about Nepal art and culture.
Must-see highlights: The Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple), Mahabouddha Temple, and the Patan Museum.
Pro tip: Those interested in the arts and history should definitely check out the Patan Museum, housed in a former palace, which boasts a very rich collection of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures.
Evening: Relax at the Garden of Dreams
Thamel ends with a leisurely walk through the Garden of Dreams, one oasis in the middle of bustling Kathmandu. From within Thamel, it is a picture-perfect garden for a little peace and relaxation.
Must-sees: The lush garden, fountains, colonial architecture.
Pro tip: If you’re a tea lover, then go to the Kaiser Cafe within the Garden for a relaxed meal or drink.
Day 3: A Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Nagarkot
Morning: Spend at Bhaktapur Durbar Square
On your third day, take the plunge and travel outside Kathmandu to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, which is 12 km distant from the capital. Unique architecture, temples, and vibrant culture but this place provides us with one not entirely destroyed. This particular UNESCO World Heritage site has its own distinct Durbar Square teeming with 55-Window Palace, ancient temples, and monuments like Vatsala Temple.
Must-see highlights: The 55-Window Palace, the Golden Gate, and the famous Vatsala Temple.
Pro Tip: Indulge in a local specialty, ‘king curd’ (juju dhau), a mouthwatering creamy yogurt served in a small clay pot.
Late Morning: Visit the Nyatapola Temple
A short walk from the Durbar Square takes you to the towering five-story Nyatapola Temple, which is the tallest pagoda-style temple in Nepal. This magnificent structure is dedicated to the goddess Siddhi Lakshmi and is known for its intricate architecture and impressive wooden sculptures.
Must-see highlights: The view from the temple and the intricately carved wooden elements.
Afternoon: Drive to Nagarkot for Scenic Views
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Nagarkot, a hill station located about 30 kilometers from Bhaktapur. Nagarkot offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain range, including Mount Everest on clear days. It’s a great spot for nature lovers, offering both tranquility and a chance to see Nepal’s natural beauty.
Must-see highlights: Views of the Himalayas, the serene atmosphere, and the opportunity for hiking.
Pro tip: Stay for sunset to see the mountains bathed in golden light.
Evening: Return to Kathmandu
After a peaceful evening in Nagarkot, drive back to Kathmandu for your final night. You can end your trip with a relaxing dinner at one of Kathmandu’s rooftop restaurants, enjoying views of the city.
Conclusions
Three days in Kathmandu Valley are just enough for sampling the rich cultural-historical-spiritual experiences it offers. One can drop in from visiting ancient temples to having a go at the serene landscapes of Nagarkot; the itinerary cuts short the first-timer view on what Kathmandu and its nearby areas have to offer.
Taxi Fare from Gorakhpur to Muktinath
Well, if you are making a purposeful pilgrimage from Gorakhpur to Muktinath, it is nice to have some idea in your head regarding taxi fare in that particular region at a period of the year and type of vehicle. The distance from Gorakhpur, India-the pilgrimage destination-to Muktinath in Nepal is roughly about 350-400 kilometers and usually costs something of INR 10,000-15,000 for a one-way trip. Put utmost importance on reconfirming the fare taken by local taxi services before leaving, as it might change across time. This taxi ride fulfills a very important requirement of the pilgrimage to Muktinath as it proves to be a comfort yet scenic portion.
This all-inclusive itinerary will also show you Kathmandu Valley in its cultural richness while giving you the essential information concerning Gorakhpur to Muktinath taxi fare in case you plan to extend your trip to this sacred destination. Happy Traveling!
Author Bio:
Rakesh works as a technical content writer at MyQbHost, a company that offers QuickBooks Enterprise hosting. Drawing on his extensive accounting background, he explores topics at the intersection of accounting and technology, including cloud accounting, cybersecurity, and the latest developments in accounting software.
